What is a Computerised ECG?
The Centre offers a Computerised ECG (electrocardiogram) that records and analyses your heart's electrical activity with automated computer interpretation.
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a simple, painless test that records the electrical signals generated by your heart with each heartbeat. A Computerised ECG captures this activity through electrodes placed on the chest, arms and legs, and feeds the readings into a computer that generates a printed trace along with an automated preliminary analysis of heart rate and rhythm. The final interpretation is reviewed by a physician alongside the computerised report.
Why is the test performed?
An ECG is commonly used to:
- • Check your heart's rate and rhythm.
- • Detect irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).
- • Identify signs of a previous or ongoing heart attack.
- • Evaluate chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness or dizziness.
- • Monitor the effect of heart medications or a pacemaker.
- • Screen for heart disease as part of a routine health check-up.
How to prepare
No special preparation is required. You can eat, drink and take your regular medications as usual. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your chest, wrists and ankles, and avoid applying oils or lotions to your chest on the day of the test, as these can interfere with electrode contact.
What happens during the test?
You will be asked to lie down on an examination table. Small adhesive electrodes are attached to your chest, arms and legs, and connected to the ECG machine by wires. You will need to lie still and breathe normally while the machine records your heart's electrical activity for a few seconds. The test is quick, painless and completely non-invasive, usually taking about 5 to 10 minutes including preparation, and you can resume your normal activities immediately afterwards.
FAQs
Is an ECG painful?
No. The test is completely painless. You may feel a slight coolness from the electrode gel or a small pull when the electrodes are removed.
Does the machine give the final diagnosis?
The computer generates an automated preliminary reading, but the final interpretation is always reviewed and confirmed by a physician.
How long does the test take?
The actual recording takes only a few seconds; the full test, including attaching electrodes, usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
Do I need to fast before the test?
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink normally before an ECG.
Are there any risks?
None. An ECG does not send any electricity into your body — it only records the heart's own electrical signals, so it carries no risk.